Make sure the sample is in good condition and dry. Wrap the sample in burlap to protect it during shipping and storage.

Pack the sample and the identification tag into a durable container for shipping.

Insulate the shipping package if there is any chance of freezing. Freezing of samples during shipping happens more frequently than expected.

We suggest using Rubbermaid Totesinsulated with several layers of burlap sacking or with several layers of cardboard.

NO STYROFOAM PLEASE.

As styrofoam is difficult to recycle, we ask that clients avoid using it to ship.

Ship with a dependable carrier.

Click logos for carrier links.

COMMON PROBLEMS WHEN SHIPPING

Frozen potatoes. Complete deterioration of sample. Very common and very easy to avoid with proper insulation of shipping containers.

Result: Untestable material. Sample will have to be re-collected and shipped again.

Rotten, slimy potatoes. Shipped wet and in poor condition.

Result: Untestable material. Sample will have to be re-collected and shipped again.

Flimsy, inadequate shipping containers. Please ship in containers that will arrive in one piece.

Result: Lost, mixed, or damaged samples. Samples may have to be re-collected and shipped again.

Wet illegible tags. Please make sure the sample tag is waterproofed in some way before putting it in with the sample, wrapping the tag in saran wrap, laminating it or placing it in a separate bag are all effective methods.

Result: Tags will have to be filled out again, signed and mailed before testing of samples can occur.

Blank or missing sample tags. Please ensure that all information is filled out and that there is a signature on every tag.

Result: Tags will have to be filled out, signed and mailed before testing of samples can occur.

A note on scooping out the potato eyes, cutting the ends off the samples or halving the potatoes for Post Harvest testing. Although this method will save on shipping weight, these samples are much more susceptible to decomposition and rot. We ask that clients ship small potatoes that are undamaged for best Post Harvest testing results.